Thai Muslims To Celebrate Eid-Ul Fitr On Sunday

BANGKOK, May 22 (Bernama) -- Muslims in Thailand will celebrate Aidilfitri (Eid-ul Fitr) on Sunday (May 24), Sheikhul Islam of Thailand, Aziz Phitakkumpon announced Friday night. “It has been confirmed that the new crescent moon has not been sighted. Hence, the first day of Syawal is on Sunday,” he said. The announcement was broadcast live by a local television station. Thai Muslims, who mostly live in the southern Thai regions of Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat and Songkhla, will celebrate Aidilfitri in the new normal following the COVID-19 outbreak.  Aidilfitri prayer will be allowed at mosques located in areas without infected cases (green zones) with strict health guidelines to contain the outbreak. In an announcement on May 17, Aziz  said members of the congregation must  wear masks, perform ablution at home and bring their own prayer mats. He said the Aidilfitri prayers must be shortened to 20 minutes. Aidilfitri feasts at mosques, family gatherings and visiting family members’ grave should not be held, he added. -- BERNAMA